Antwerp Zoo | Antwerp

Information

Landmark: Antwerp Zoo
City: Antwerp
Country: Belgium
Continent: Europe

Antwerp Zoo, Antwerp, Belgium, Europe

Antwerp Zoo (ZOO Antwerpen) is one of the oldest animal parks in the world, established in 1843. Located in the heart of Antwerp immediately adjacent to the Central Station, it is a protected monument known for its blend of 19th-century architecture and modern zoological conservation.

Visual Characteristics

The park is characterized by its "architectural eclecticism," featuring historic buildings designed in Egyptian, Moorish, and Neoclassical styles. Notable structures include the Egyptian Temple (1856) and the Moorish Temple. The zoo is landscaped as a 19th-century "walking park" with winding paths, manicured gardens, and mature trees, contrasting with modern, open-air enclosures like the "Savannah" and the "Valley of the Apes."

Location & Access Logistics

Address: Koningin Astridplein 26, 2018 Antwerp.

Public Transport: Highly accessible via Antwerp Central Station (immediately adjacent). All major tram and bus lines converge at the "Astrid" or "Diamant" stops.

Parking: No on-site parking. Visitors typically use the "Parking Station Astrid" or "Parking Roosevelt" underground garages.

Arrival: The main entrance is situated on the Koningin Astridplein.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Founded by the Royal Zoological Society of Antwerp (KMDA), the zoo was created to promote zoological and botanical sciences. It has survived both World Wars, though it sustained significant damage during WWII. Today, it plays a critical role in international breeding programs for endangered species, such as the bonobo and the okapi.

Key Highlights & Activities

Vriesland: A climate-controlled habitat for king penguins and macaroni penguins.

Hippotopia: An exhibit featuring hippopotamuses and Malayan tapirs.

Skywalk: An elevated panoramic walkway providing views of the red panda enclosure and the historic park layout.

Aqualapia: A historic aquarium building housing diverse marine and freshwater species.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The zoo features multiple dining facilities, including the "Grand Café Flamingo" and various seasonal kiosks. Public restrooms, baby-care rooms, and lockers are distributed throughout the park. The site is fully wheelchair accessible, with manual wheelchairs available for rent at the entrance. 5G coverage is consistent across the 10-hectare grounds.

Best Time to Visit

The park is open daily from 10:00 AM. To observe peak animal activity, arrival at opening time is recommended. Weekdays during the school term are significantly quieter than weekends. During the winter months, the zoo hosts "China Light ZOO," a large-scale evening light festival featuring illuminated silk sculptures.

Facts & Legends

The zoo's Egyptian Temple is one of the oldest zoo buildings in existence and originally housed elephants and giraffes; it remains famous for the authentic 19th-century hieroglyphic murals on its interior walls. A local "secret" is the "Buffet van de Dierentuin," a historic hall that once served as a high-society ballroom.